Is Canned Chicken Low FODMAP? Navigating the Nutrition Diet

October 4, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Monash University, unmarinated meats like plain chicken are naturally low in FODMAPs, but what about the convenience of canned chicken? The simple answer to 'Is canned chicken low FODMAP?' is that it depends entirely on the ingredients, making careful label reading essential for anyone on a restrictive diet for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Quick Summary

This guide examines how to determine if a canned chicken product is suitable for a low FODMAP diet. It highlights the importance of checking ingredient lists for high FODMAP additives, outlines what to look for when shopping, and offers guidance for safe consumption.

Key Points

Check the Label: Plain canned chicken packed in water and salt is likely low FODMAP, but you must read the ingredient list carefully for hidden high-FODMAP additives.
Avoid High-FODMAP Ingredients: Common culprits include garlic powder, onion powder, and some natural flavorings that can be added for taste.
Plain Is Best: Unmarinated, unseasoned fresh or canned chicken is naturally low in FODMAPs because it is a protein source without the problematic carbohydrates.
Drain the Liquid: If you are uncertain about the liquid in the can, drain and rinse the chicken thoroughly to wash away any potential leached FODMAPs.
Use Certified Products: For ultimate certainty, look for products with the Monash University Low FODMAP Certified™ logo or use the Fig App for product verification.
Beware of Broths: Most commercial chicken broths are high in FODMAPs, so avoid using the broth from canned chicken if it's not explicitly low FODMAP.

Understanding the Low FODMAP Diet

For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), following a low FODMAP diet can provide significant relief from digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. FODMAPs are a group of small-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed by the gut and can ferment, causing distress. The low FODMAP diet involves an elimination and reintroduction process to identify specific triggers. The good news is that many common protein sources, including plain poultry, are naturally low in FODMAPs, which offers a great starting point for meal planning. However, complications can arise with processed foods, like canned goods, where hidden ingredients can add FODMAPs to an otherwise safe food.

The Lowdown on Canned Chicken and FODMAPs

Plain chicken is inherently low FODMAP because it is primarily protein and fat, containing minimal carbohydrates. When chicken is canned, the meat itself remains low FODMAP, but the canning process can introduce high FODMAP ingredients. This is why a simple search for "is canned chicken low fodmap?" won't yield a one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice of canned chicken depends on the product's entire ingredient list.

Potential High-FODMAP Additives in Canned Chicken

When examining a canned chicken label, be on the lookout for the following common high-FODMAP additives that can cause digestive issues:

Onion: Often added as onion powder or flavoring.
Garlic: Similarly, garlic powder or extract is a common addition.
Certain broths: Store-bought chicken broth and 'natural flavorings' can contain onion, garlic, or other undisclosed high-FODMAP ingredients.
Other seasonings: Some blends may include high-FODMAP herbs or spices.

The Importance of the Canning Liquid

Some high-FODMAP foods can have their FODMAP content reduced by canning them in water, as the water-soluble FODMAPs leach out. This is not a reliable method for determining the FODMAP content of canned chicken, especially if high-FODMAP additives were used in the first place. It is safest to assume that if high-FODMAP flavorings were used, the liquid contains FODMAPs. Therefore, it’s best to choose products with plain ingredients from the start.

How to Find a Safe Canned Chicken Product

Selecting a canned chicken that is suitable for a low FODMAP diet requires a simple but diligent process. By following these steps, you can confidently add this convenient protein source to your pantry.

Prioritize Certified Products: The easiest option is to look for products with the official Monash University Low FODMAP Certified™ logo. This seal guarantees that the product has been tested and deemed low FODMAP. The Fig App also helps identify low-FODMAP products.
Inspect the Ingredient List: Read the label carefully. Look for products with the simplest ingredient list possible. The ideal list would include only chicken, water, and salt.
Watch Out for Flavorings: Be wary of terms like 'natural flavors' or 'spices,' as these can sometimes hide high-FODMAP ingredients. Several brands, like Swanson Premium Chunk White, list their ingredients clearly, and tools like the Fig App can confirm their status.
Consider Draining and Rinsing: If you are using a canned chicken product that you are slightly unsure about, a prudent approach is to drain the liquid thoroughly and rinse the chicken with fresh water. While this isn't a substitute for careful label reading, it can help remove residual additives from the surface of the meat.

Canned Chicken vs. Other Chicken Options: A Comparison

For those on a low FODMAP diet, several chicken options are available. The best choice often depends on convenience and your specific dietary needs.


Feature	Plain Canned Chicken	Fresh, Unmarinated Chicken	Marinated or Seasoned Chicken
FODMAP Risk	Can be low FODMAP, but check ingredients carefully for additives like garlic and onion powder.	Low FODMAP as long as no high-FODMAP marinades are used.	High risk due to the common use of high-FODMAP ingredients like garlic, onion, and some sauces.
Preparation	Minimal preparation required; ready to eat or add to dishes.	Requires cooking, which can be time-consuming.	Requires cooking and often involves high-FODMAP ingredients that must be avoided.
Cost	Generally affordable and cost-effective.	Varies by cut and quality.	Can be more expensive due to processing and added ingredients.
Best For	Quick meals, salads, and sandwiches.	Versatile for any recipe from scratch.	Should be avoided unless confirmed low FODMAP or homemade with safe ingredients.

Integrating Low FODMAP Canned Chicken into Your Diet

Once you've found a suitable product, canned chicken can be a versatile ingredient for quick and easy meals. It works well in cold dishes like chicken salad made with low FODMAP mayonnaise and scallion greens, or it can be added to heated meals like low FODMAP soups or casseroles. It's a reliable protein source for times when cooking fresh chicken isn't practical. Remember to use only low FODMAP certified broths or homemade broth without onion or garlic if you are making soup, as commercial broths are typically high in FODMAPs.

Conclusion

To answer the question, is canned chicken low FODMAP?, the answer is yes, but only if you select a product with a plain and simple ingredient list, free from high-FODMAP additives like onion or garlic. Choosing certified products or relying on trusted apps like Fig or Monash can simplify the process, but a thorough label check is the most reliable strategy. Canned chicken, when chosen wisely, can be a valuable and convenient protein source for anyone following a low FODMAP diet.

For additional guidance on the low FODMAP diet, please consult the authoritative resources provided by Monash University.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it's best to be cautious. 'Natural flavors' can often include high-FODMAP ingredients like onion or garlic. If you are highly sensitive, it's safer to avoid products with this general term and opt for those with a completely transparent and simple ingredient list.

No, just like with chicken, the suitability of other canned meats depends on their additives. Always check the ingredient list for high-FODMAP seasonings, broths, or processed ingredients. Plain canned seafood like tuna and salmon are generally safe choices.

Brands can change their formulations, so always check the label. However, products like Swanson Chicken Breast Premium Chunk White have been flagged as likely low FODMAP in the past due to their simple ingredients. For definitive confirmation, use a dedicated FODMAP-checking tool or app.

Low FODMAP canned chicken is excellent for quick meals. You can add it to salads with low FODMAP vegetables, use it in sandwiches with low FODMAP bread, or mix it into a soup or casserole made with low FODMAP ingredients. For soups, use a low FODMAP certified stock or homemade broth.

No, draining and rinsing can help remove some water-soluble FODMAPs, but it's not a foolproof solution. It's always safest to start with a product that has no high-FODMAP ingredients listed. Draining is a good practice for reducing sodium but doesn't guarantee FODMAP removal if additives were present.

You can, but it is crucial to select the right kind. Plain, unseasoned canned chicken with minimal ingredients is safe for most people with IBS. The issue arises with added ingredients like garlic and onion powder, which are common IBS triggers.

Yes, certified low FODMAP chicken broths and soup bases are available from brands like Fody Foods and Gourmend Foods. You can also make your own using safe ingredients.